Chapter 296

Isabella Jackson stood listlessly in the corner when someone suddenly called her name.

"Lily, finally found you!"

She turned to see Lily White striding toward her in high heels. The once-naive girl now radiated star power with every move.

"Lily?" Isabella raised a surprised brow. "Aren't you supposed to be filming?"

Lily linked arms with her affectionately. "Just wrapped up a project. Came specifically for this gala."

Lowering her voice, she added, "Rumor has it the Sullivans are throwing this party to welcome Adrian back—but secretly, they're scouting for his future wife."

Isabella scanned the room, spotting numerous impeccably dressed socialites.

"You're well-informed."

"Mom told me." Lily winked. "But I'm not interested in Adrian."

Noticing the shadow in Lily's eyes, Isabella probed, "Still thinking about Alexander?"

Lily's smile faltered briefly before she changed the subject. "Enough about me. How are things with Ethan lately?"

"Didn't you see him walk in with my sister?" Isabella's laugh was bitter. "She's all he sees now."

"What? He just gifted you Brocade recently!"

The words stabbed Isabella's heart. That was severance pay—Ethan's way of cutting ties completely.

"Things have changed, Lily." Her gaze drifted meaningfully toward Evelyn. "Because of her."

Following her line of sight, Lily's lips curled into a faint, knowing smirk. The entertainment industry had taught her to recognize such games.

"You can't force love." She patted Isabella's hand. "Maybe Ethan will come around someday."

Isabella forced a smile while silently cursing Lily's evasion.

After exchanging more pleasantries, Lily excused herself to the restroom.

Isabella watched her leave, eyes icy. So what if Lily had grown wiser? As long as she still pined for Alexander, she remained a pawn.

Meanwhile, Evelyn released Ethan's arm the moment they entered the ballroom.

"I'll go keep Grandma company."

Ethan frowned. "Stay away from those men trying to chat you up."

"Got it." She headed toward Margaret without looking back.

Beside Margaret, Margaret Sullivan checked her watch anxiously.

"Evelyn, perfect timing." She rushed out, "I have an emergency. Keep Grandma entertained."

Before Evelyn could respond, Margaret hurried away.